About HBCUs

Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders

Explore the legacy of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) with our ‘About HBCUs’ category. Delve into their rich history, academic excellence, and pivotal role in shaping leaders. Discover stories of notable alumni and groundbreaking achievements that highlight the enduring impact of HBCUs.

Whether you’re a prospective student, alumnus, or education enthusiast, this section offers valuable insights into HBCUs’ contributions to higher education and society. Engage with content that celebrates their unique culture and community spirit, empowering the next generation.

The Xavier University of Louisiana historic U-shaped, gothic administration building completed in 1933.

The First and Only Black Catholic HBCU in the Nation

There are 107 Historically Black Colleges and 251 Catholic colleges in the United States, yet there is only one that is both historically Black and Catholic. Yes, we are talking about the Xavier University of Louisiana located in the Gert Town section of New Orleans, Louisiana. Xavier’s Mission and History Founded in 1915 by Saint […]

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Bishop Edward Waters, the third Bishop of A.M.E. Church.

The Oldest Florida HBCU Celebrates its 149th Anniversary

In recognition of Edward Waters College (EWC) 149th anniversary, Jacksonville, Florida Mayor Alvin Brown has issued a proclamation declaring April 8, 2015 as “Edward Waters College” day. Edward Waters College, Florida’s oldest historically black college and private institution of higher learning, will be celebrating Founders’ Day Wednesday, April 8, 2015 on the campus. Formerly named

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Wilberforce University circa 1885.

The First Black Owned and Operated HBCU

Founded in 1856, Wilberforce University was established near Xenia, Ohio as a joint venture between the African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME) and the Methodist Episcopal Church. Named after the 18th century abolitionist William Wilberforce, it was the first black owned and operated historically black university in the United States. Built to support the abolitionist cause

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haw Hall, Shaw University circa the 1880s.

The First HBCU Established in the Southern United States

Shaw University, the first HBCU of higher education in the southern United States has a rich history steeped in tradition, service, leadership, and activism. Founded in 1865 by Dr. Henry Martin Tupper, the university celebrated its Sesquicentennial Anniversary in 2015. The mission of Shaw University is to advance knowledge, facilitate student learning and achievement, to

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An image from Meharry Medical College STEM PhD Graduation ceremony.

HBCUs Produce Most Black STEM PhDs, Grads Get Least Aid

New research on the educational pathways of black STEM PhD holders finds that nearly a third of those from historically black colleges and universities (HBCU) graduated with high levels of debt. The American Institutes for Research (AIR) also found that 72 percent of those with a STEM doctorate from an HBCU also earned their undergraduate

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